Location & How to Get There

Sanduoqiao Village Egret Reserve lies in Baishiyi Town, Jiulongpo District, just a 30-minute drive from central Chongqing. It’s nestled between suburban hills, making it a peaceful escape from the city. To reach here, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing app directly (about ¥50–¥80 from downtown), or hop on local buses like Bus 293 or 286 from Chongqing Zoo Station. For a scenic route, rent a bike and pedal through countryside roads—just check a map for turns!

Natural Wonders: Herons & Bamboo Forests

This reserve is China’s first egret sanctuary, home to over 20,000 herons, night herons, and other bird species. Imagine walking through lush green bamboo forests, with white herons perched on branches or swooping above. In spring and summer, the trees are packed with nests, creating a “heron city” vibe. A highlight is the 100-acre Egret Pond—a man-made lake that mirrors the sky and attracts flocks. Nearby, lotus flowers bloom in summer, so you can snap photos of pink blooms with herons flying overhead.

Human-Made Charm: Local Life & Food

Beyond nature, the reserve blends rural culture with tourism. Over 20 homestay restaurants (农家园) line the paths, offering spicy Chongqing dishes like heron-shaped rice cakes or river fish soup. Try sitting by a bamboo hut, sipping tea while watching herons glide past. The area also hosts seasonal festivals, like lotus flower fairs in July, where locals sell handmade crafts and snacks.

Easy-Breezy Facilities

The reserve is tourist-friendly without feeling overdeveloped. Concrete walkways loop through the area, so no muddy boots! Several viewing pavilions let you spot herons up close, and there’s even a kids’ play area with ducks and turtles. For photographers, morning light is best—arrive before 8 AM to catch herons waking up. If you forget binoculars, rentals are available at the entrance.

A Day Trip to Remember

Start your visit early! Watch the heron “rush hour” at dawn, when birds fly out to hunt. Then stroll along the pond, stopping at pavilions for coffee or snacks. In summer, rent a paddle boat on the lotus-filled lake. Families will love feeding ducks or trying bamboo-tube rice (cooked in local ovens). By afternoon, relax at a homestay, chat with villagers, and savor dishes like stewed heron egg (don’t worry—it’s farm-raised!).

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes, bring insect repellent, and avoid loud noises to respect the herons. This mix of nature, culture, and cozy vibes makes Sanduoqiao Village Egret Reserve a hidden gem near Chongqing!